Future iPhone to allow capacitive touch with gloves on?

Hitachi Displays out of Japan have been working on a new type of capacitive display technology that Apple could use in the next-generation iPhone 5 coming in 2011 that allows for interacting with the screen without direct skin contact, such as when using the device with gloves. From Patently Apple:

The new touch panel is still a projection design, but could be operated even while wearing gloves. The new panels range from 3 to 10 inches in size, covering Apple's current lines of iOS based devices. Considering that Apple is a pioneering leader in this field, we're likely to see this technology come to iOS based devices in the coming years.

This is a really neat idea. I can't tell you the number of times during the winter months when I'd appreciate such a technology as this (as opposed to spending $20+ on a pair of special "iPhone gloves", pictured above). This would also be great for using a non-iPhone specific stylus if you're still into using technology dating back to the late 90's.

How about you, would you be happy seeing this integrated into future iPhone or iPad displays, or would you not notice the added value? Let us know what you think in the comments!

Andrew Wray is a Salt Lake City, Utah based writer who focuses on news, how-tos, and jailbreak. Andrew also enjoys running, spending time with his daughter, and jamming out on his guitar. He works in a management position for Unisys Technical Services, a subsidiary of Unisys Corporation.

I'm happy with the way it is now. Gloves are less of a problem than pressing random buttons in your pocket. I like that practically only your fingers will work on it, which is all I Want to put on it. If you want to use gloves, get a pair of iphone gloves, they're only 20 bucks on Dot Gloves.

This would suck. Im not a pocket dialing fan. And James put the Jesus phone down and pick a carrier that actually works in your area. So ridiculous people owning a friggin phone that doesn't make calls. But alas that's more of AT&Ts problem than anything is battling with the phone that shouldnt be with them in the first place.

Many useless comments, as usual, but some good points in there. For example, someone mentioned the potential for accidental presses hrough other clothes, like pants pockets.
I don't have an iphone, but an iPad. Still, we might be exchanging one set of problems for another. Also,1) I live in Florida so we don't use gloves as much and 2) when I DO use gloves, I am guessing they be too thick for this technology. We shall see.

@Adas I'll have to remember that nose trick!
LOL @ Rob & Stephan. Get a room. ;-)
@Gary I agree. If it limits the overall effectiveness of the touch screen, Apple will leave the tech be. Maybe Microsoft will buy it?

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